Willie Shaw facts for kids
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
| Born: | January 11, 1944 Glenmora, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Career information | |
| High school: | San Diego (CA) Lincoln |
| College: | New Mexico (1966–1968) |
| Career history | |
| As coach: | |
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| Coaching stats at PFR | |
Willie Lorenzo Shaw, born on January 11, 1944, is a well-known former American football player and coach. He spent many years coaching for both professional NFL teams and college football teams. You might also know his son, David Shaw, who used to be the head coach for Stanford University's football team.
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Willie Shaw's Early Life and Playing Days
Willie Shaw was born in Glenmora, Louisiana. After finishing high school at Lincoln High School in San Diego, he joined the United States Air Force. He served during the Vietnam War and became a Sergeant.
After his military service, Shaw worked with jets at an electronics company. Later, he decided to go to college. He attended the University of New Mexico.
Playing College Football
From 1966 to 1968, Willie Shaw played football for the New Mexico Lobos. He was a talented cornerback and was recognized as an All-Western Athletic Conference player. He also received an All-All-America honorable mention.
After playing for New Mexico, Shaw transferred to San Diego State University. He didn't play football there, but he focused on his studies. He earned his bachelor's degree in physical education in 1971. A few years later, in 1973, he completed his master's degree in physical education.
Willie Shaw's Coaching Career
After his time as a player, Willie Shaw began a long and successful career as a football coach. He worked as an assistant coach for many different college and NFL teams. His main focus was coaching defenses, either as a secondary coach or a defensive coordinator.
Shaw coached for a total of 14 teams throughout his career. His longest periods in the NFL were with the Minnesota Vikings (he coached there twice) and the Detroit Lions. In college football, he spent the most time at Stanford (also two separate times) and Arizona State.
During his second time coaching at Stanford, he was considered for the head coach position in 1992. However, the job eventually went to Bill Walsh, another famous coach.
Willie Shaw's Family
Willie Shaw has a family deeply involved in football. His son, David Shaw, followed in his footsteps and became a successful football coach. David was the head coach for the Stanford University football team for many years. Willie also has a brother named Nate Shaw, who played as a safety for the USC team in the 1960s.
